Stillwater Cove Regional Park

This gorgeous hike tops my list as one of the best hikes in the Bay Area. Located on the Sonoma Coast, just north of Jenner on Highway 1, Stillwater Cove Regional Park has it all. The hike consists of an interpretive trail that winds through a canyon of lush ferns and towering old-growth redwoods, and ends with a short out-and-back hike to a small seaside cove and picnic area.

The entire hike is only 3-miles, but you can pack a lunch at make an afternoon of it. I recommend starting the hike with the redwoods interpretive trail, including making a side trek to the old schoolhouse. After completing the interpretive trail follow the path out to the beach and spend the rest of the afternoon combing the shore for seashells and enjoying the water.

This is a great hike to do with families or out of town guests. If you want to spend the weekend on the coast you can try reserving a site at Stillwater Cove Regional Park or arrive early to snag one of the three walk-up campsites. You can reserve a site through the Sonoma County Regional Park’s website.

The Trailhead:

As you enter the park, follow the signs for the day use parking. The trailhead is located at the western end of the day use parking lot.

The Route:

From the parking lot, enter the single trailhead and follow the trail down into the canyon. The trail will split in two. I recommend taking the loop trail to the Canyon and Fort Ross Schoolhouse first. (Try to pick-up one of the laminated nature brochures and follow along with the numbered markers.) After completing the Canyon loop, follow the trail to the Cove.

About The Author

Nature lover, hiking afficionado, backpacking buff, and strong believer that adventure can be found in our backyard. I started this website to catalog my hiking, camping, and backpacking adventures in the Bay Area.